Red Sox's Early Spring Training Lineup Mirrors Regular Season Strategy
FORT MYERS, Fla. — Spring training lineups often feature a mix of regulars and non-roster invitees, but on Sunday, Alex Cora offered a glimpse into a lineup that mirrors the one he'll likely use on Opening Day in Cincinnati. This lineup showcases a strategic alternation of left-handed and right-handed batters through the top six slots.
Cora's lineup featured Roman Anthony (L) followed by Trevor Story (R), Jarren Duran (L), Willson Contreras (R), Wilyer Abreu (L), and Caleb Durbin (R). The bottom third of the lineup included right-handed hitters Ceddanne Rafaela, Carlos Narváez, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa, with the potential for Marcelo Mayer to replace Kiner-Falefa, adding a left-handed hitter to the mix.
Cora explained, 'It’s something I have envisioned, and it just happened that for the first time in years, what you might see early is what you’re probably going to see on Opening Day.'
Story's placement in the second slot is notable. Last year, Story emerged as a top run producer, primarily from the fourth and fifth spots, with 25 homers and 96 RBI. However, his .308 OBP was slightly lower than the MLB average of .334 for the No. 2 hitter.
Cora praised Story's recent performance, noting his .287/.331/.494 line with 19 homers and 22 steals over the final 103 games. Story believes he can build on this success, aiming to reach his offensive potential and improve his OBP.
Brayan Bello, meanwhile, is working on his changeup, a pitch that has been a strength throughout his career. In 2025, Bello threw the changeup harder but with less depth, leading to fewer barrels. He's now focusing on regaining the feel for the pitch.
Bello expressed satisfaction with his overall performance, including a changeup with less velocity and spin, and two curveballs. He believes these adjustments will help him compete better against left-handed batters, who have tagged him for a .269/.347/.434 line in his big league career.
The Red Sox also honored the late Mike Greenwell, a Fort Myers native, during their Grapefruit League home opener. Greenwell's family was recognized, followed by a moment of silence. Former teammates Jim Rice and Dwight Evans participated in the ceremonial first pitch.
Alex Speier, a Globe reporter, can be reached at alex.speier@globe.com and followed on Twitter @alexspeier.
